Quick-setting coating compositions with low pH stability and water resistance

ABSTRACT

A latex product composition that includes an anionically-stabilized latex and one or more water soluble, polymers or polymeric adducts that have a backbone with a plurality of amine functional groups and hydroxyl functional groups. The polymers or polymeric adducts may be an addition product formed from at least one multifunctional amine compound reacted with one or more polyfunctional epoxy compounds, one or more monofunctional epoxy compounds, or a combination thereof. The amine compound and the one or more epoxy compounds are reacted to form polymers or polymeric adducts with the molar equivalent ratio of 1.3 to 3.8 amine functional group per epoxy functional group. The addition product may be present in about 0.1 to 15.0 wt. % and the at least one volatile base compound is present in about 1.0 wt. % to 10.0 wt. % based on the weight of the particles present in the anionically-stabilized latex.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a national stage application under 35 U.S.C. § 371of PCT/US2016/037753 filed Jun. 16, 2016, which claims benefit to U.S.patent application Ser. Nos. 62/183,291, filed Jun. 23, 2015 and62/319,476, filed Apr. 7, 2016.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This disclosure relates generally to aqueous compositions used ascoatings, inks, adhesives, sealants, and the like that incorporate awater soluble, quick-setting additive. More specifically, thisdisclosure relates to aqueous compositions that include latex particledispersions with water soluble polymers or polymeric adducts being mixedtherewith.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The statements in this section merely provide background informationrelated to the present invention and may not constitute prior art.

Latex products are widely used in a variety of coatings, adhesives, andinks because they offer several benefits, including the ease in whichthey can be handled and the absence of any substantial amount ofvolatile organic compounds (VOCs). One specific example of such a latexproduct is the acrylic latex compositions used in traffic markingpaints. Due to the market demand for products that exhibit a shortenedsetting time, the coating industry has widely adopted coagulationtechnology for use in latex products. Within the confines of suchcoagulation technology, protonated polyfunctional amines destabilize theanionically-stabilized latex particles present in the latex productsafter they are coated onto a substrate. However, in order to retain thestability of the modified latex particles in the latex product prior toapplication (e.g., during storage), a volatile amine is added to thelatex product in order to increase the pH to a level that prevents theprotonation of the polyfunctional amine. When the latex product isapplied on to a substrate, the volatile amine escapes or evaporates fromthe applied coating composition. The loss of the volatile amine resultsin a decrease in the pH of the applied latex coating composition. Thedecrease in pH triggers the coagulation of the latex particles in theapplied coating composition, which results in a faster setting time.

Numerous polyfunctional amine compounds have been utilized as epoxycuring agents and quick-setting additives for latex products. U.S. Pat.No. 6,653,369 describes water dilutable amine curing agents for aqueousepoxy resin dispersions, comprising a combination of an epoxide-amineadduct with an emulsifier. U.S. Pat. No. 5,246,984 describes a watercompatible polyamine-epoxy adduct formed by the reaction of a polyaminewith a mixture of a monoepoxide and polyepoxides. U.S. Pat. No.5,804,627 discloses a shelf-stable fast-cure aqueous coating thatcontains an anionically-stabilized latex, a polyfunctional amine, and avolatile base in an amount sufficient to prevent the protonation of theamine.

Despite their distinct benefit of improving the setting time for a latexproduct when it is applied as a coating, the use of polyfunctional aminecompounds is usually only practical when the pH of the latex product ismaintained at 10 or above. When the pH of a latex product is lower than10, the polyamine tends to destabilize the anionically-stabilized latexparticles and form unwanted solids in the latex product. In order toensure that the pH remains higher than 10 during storage, volatileamines such as ammonia are typically added to the latex product. Theneed for a volatile amine limits the utilization of these latex productsin a wide variety of applications due to the unpleasant odor of thevolatile amine and the liberation of an excessive amount of the volatileamine into the environment during use of the latex product.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally provides a latex product compositionthat comprises, consists of, or consists essentially of ananionically-stabilized latex and one or more polymers or polymericadducts having a backbone that comprises a plurality of amine functionalgroups and hydroxyl functional groups. The polymers or polymeric adductsmay be water soluble and have a number average molecular weight in therange of about 500 to about 1,000,000 Daltons, as well as comprise anitrogen atom percentage of 5 to about 35%.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the polymers orpolymeric adducts may be an addition product formed from at least onemultifunctional amine compound reacted with one or more polyfunctionalepoxy compounds, one or more monofunctional epoxy compounds, or acombination thereof; wherein the amine compound and the one or moreepoxy compounds provide 1.3 to 3.8 amine functional group per epoxyfunctional group. The polyfunctional epoxy compounds may comprisemulti-epoxides of unsaturated hydrocarbons and fatty acids/oils, epoxyethers of multifunctional alcohols, or combinations thereof and themonofunctional epoxy compounds may comprise epoxy ethers ofmonofunctional alcohols, mono-epoxides of unsaturated hydrocarbons, orcombinations thereof. The multifunctional amine compounds may beselected from the group of ethylene diamine, butylene diamine,diethylene triamine, hexamethylene triamine, triethylene tetramine,polyoxyethylene amines, 2-methyl pentamethylene diamine, 1,3-diaminopropane, 1,4-diamino butane, 1,5-diamino pentane, 1,6-diamino hexane,1,2-diamino cyclohexane, isophorone diamine, tetraethylene pentamine,4,4′-methylene-bis-cyclohexyl amine, bis(3-methyl-4aminocyclohexyl)methane, 2,2-bis(3-methyl-4-aminocyclohexyl) propane,2,6-bis(aminomethyl) norborane, cyclohexane diamine, 3,4-diamino furan,phenylene diamine, 2,4-diamino toluene, polyalkylene oxide diamine,polyalkylene oxide triamine, 2,6 diamino toluene and the combinationsthereof. When desirable, the at least one multifunctional amine compoundmay be diethylene triamine (DETA) and the one or more polyfunctionalepoxy compounds and/or monofunctional epoxy compounds may be ethyleneglycol diglycidyl ether (EGDGE), n-butyl glycidyl ether (BGE),polypropylene glycol diglycidyl ether (PPGDGE), or polyethylene glycoldiglycidyl ether (PEGDGE).

The polymers, polymeric adducts, and/or addition products may comprise,consist of, or consist essentially of the formula (F-1):

where R₄ is alkyl or

and R₃ is hydrogen or alkyl, and R₂ is alkyl, and R₁ is H, alkylhydroxide, alkyl ether hydroxide, or

wherein, w, x, y, and z are integers ranging between 1 and 20, between 0and 10, between 1 and 10,000, and between 0 and 10,000, respectively.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure the polymers,polymeric adducts, or addition products are dissolved in an aqueousmedium to form an aqueous solution having a viscosity in the range ofabout 100 centipoise to about 100,000 centipoise and a pH value of about8 to about 12 when the aqueous solution comprises 70 wt. % of thepolymers, polymeric adducts, or addition products dispersed in theaqueous medium. This aqueous solution exhibits less than about a 30%viscosity change and maintains a transparent appearance when maintainedat a temperature of 50° C. for 30 days.

The anionically-stabilized latex may comprise, consist of, or consistessentially of polymer particles dispersed in an aqueous medium with upto 10 wt. % of an anionic surfactant based on the weight of the polymerparticles. The polymer particles may be selected as one from the groupof an acrylic copolymer, a styrene-acrylic copolymer, a vinyl-acryliccopolymer, a vinyl copolymer, and a combination or mixture thereof. Inthe latex product composition, the polymers, polymeric adducts, oraddition products may be present in an amount between about 0.1 wt. %and 15.0 wt. % based on the weight of the polymer particles present inthe anionically-stabilized latex.

According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the polymers,polymeric adducts, or addition products may be selected as

where R is H, alkyl hydroxide, alkyl ether hydroxide, or

The latex product composition of the present invention may be fieldand/or factory applied coatings. The latex product composition of thepresent disclosure may be used as is or incorporated into a variety ofproducts, including but not limited to coatings, paints, adhesives,sealants, caulks, or inks that are utilized without limitation intraffic marking, architectural or decorative (which are usedsynonymously herein), deck, dry-fall, pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA),roof, cementitious, and primer applications, among others. A coatingformed using the latex product composition is tack-free or dry-throughin a time that is at least 25% faster than the time required for asimilar latex composition that uses no polyamine additive to betack-free or dry-through.

Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the descriptionprovided herein. It should be understood that the description andspecific examples are intended for purposes of illustration only and arenot intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings described herein are for illustration purposes only and arenot intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.

FIG. 1a is a schematic representation of a latex product compositionprepared according to the teachings of the present disclosure placedinto a container for storage;

FIG. 1b is a schematic representation of the fast drying mechanismassociated with a latex product composition of FIG. 1a after beingapplied to a substrate;

FIG. 2a is a schematic representation of a reaction scheme for formingthe polymeric adducts according to the teachings of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 2b is a schematic representation of another reaction scheme forforming the polymeric adducts according to the teachings of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 3a is a comparison of the water resistance exhibited by aconventional latex product against the water resistance exhibited by alatex product containing the polymers or polymeric adducts preparedaccording to the teachings of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 3b is a comparison the water resistance exhibited by anotherconventional latex product against the water resistance exhibited byanother latex product containing the polymers or polymeric adductsprepared according to the teachings of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is in no wayintended to limit the present disclosure or its application or uses. Forexample, the latex products made and used according to the teachingscontained herein is described throughout the present disclosure inconjunction with a traffic marking paint in order to more fullyillustrate the composition and the use thereof. The incorporation anduse of such a latex product as a coating in other applications or as anink, an adhesive, a caulk, a sealant, a mastic, or the like arecontemplated to be within the scope of the present disclosure. It shouldbe understood that throughout the description, corresponding referencenumerals indicate like or corresponding parts and features.

Referring to FIG. 1a , the composition of the latex products (1) of thepresent disclosure generally comprises, consists of, or consistsessentially of an anionically-stabilized latex (3) and one or morepolymers or polymeric adducts (10 a). The anionically-stabilized latex(3) represents a stable emulsion of polymer particles (15) dispersed inan aqueous medium (20). The aqueous medium (20) may comprise water asthe primary solvent or diluent either alone or as a mixture with one ormore co-solvents or secondary solvents. The latex products of thepresent disclosure provide several advantages over conventional latexproducts. These advantages include: being an effective “fast-dry”composition with 1-2% of the polymers or polymeric adducts and providinga coating that exhibits increased water resistance.

The amount of water in the anionically-stabilized latex (3) may rangebetween about 25 wt. % to about 75 wt. %; alternatively, between 40 wt.% to about 60 wt. % based on the overall weight of theanionically-stabilized latex (3). One or more co-solvents may beoptionally incorporated into the latex in an amount that ranges betweenabout 0 wt. % to about 30 wt. %; alternatively, between 5 wt. % to about20 wt. % based on the overall weight of the anionic ally-stabilizedlatex. The co-solvent may include coalescence aids and fast evaporatingsolvents that can assist in film formation and/or the quick dryingbehavior exhibited by traffic marking paints and other latex coatings.Several examples of co-solvents include without limitation methylalcohol, propylene and ethylene glycol ethers, propylene and ethyleneglycols, and 2,2,4-Trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol monoisobutyrate (e.g.,Texanol®, Eastman Chemical Co.). Alternatively, the co-solvent ismethanol.

The polymer particles (15) in the anionically-stabilized latex (3) maybe a polymer or copolymer prepared from monomers that include withoutlimitation methyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate, butyl acrylate, butylmethacrylate, styrene, butadiene, ethylene, vinyl acetate, vinylversatate, vinyl chloride, acrylonitrile, acrylic acid, and methacrylicacid, among others. The polymer particles may also be derived from oneor more ethylenically unsaturated acid monomers or their correspondingesters, including but not limited to acrylic and methacrylic esters.Alternatively, the polymer particles comprise without limitation anacrylic copolymer, a styrene acrylic copolymer, a vinyl acryliccopolymer, a vinyl copolymer, and a mixture or combination thereof. Thepolymer particles may exhibit a glass transition temperature betweenabout −50.0° C. to about 70.0° C.

The anionic charge on the polymer particles (15) may be obtained by anymeans known to one skilled in the art, including but not limited to theinclusion of acid groups within or on surface of the polymer particles.Several specific examples of such acid groups are those derived frommaleic acid, vinyl sulfonic acid, acrylic acid, and methacrylic acid toname a few. The anionic charge may also arise through the use of anionicsurfactants and dispersants used to disperse the polymer particles intothe aqueous medium. These surfactants or dispersants may include withoutlimitation salts of fatty rosin and naphthenic acids, condensationproducts of sulfonic acid and formaldehyde, carboxylic polymers, alkylsulfates, alkyl aryl sulfonates, and sulfosuccinates. The amount ofanionic surfactant or dispersant utilized may range up to 10.0 wt. %based on the weight of the polymer particles. Alternatively, the amountof surfactant used is greater than 0.1 wt. % based on the weight of thepolymer particles. When desirable, the amount of anionic surfactant thatis utilized is within the range of about 0.5 wt. % to about 8.0 wt. %;alternatively, between about 1.0 wt. % and 7.0 wt. % based on the weightof the polymer particles. Further details regarding ananionically-stabilized latex is provide in U.S. Pat. No. 5,804,627issued to F. Landy et al. on Sep. 8, 1998, the entire disclosure ofwhich is hereby incorporated by reference. When desirable, the latexcompositions may also include one or more non-ionic and/or cationicsurfactants or dispersants, as well as other additives.

The polymers or polymeric adducts (10 a) may have a polymeric backbonethat comprises, consists of, or consists essentially of a plurality ofsegments with amine functional groups and hydroxyl functional groups.The polymers or polymeric adducts (10 a) generally comprise hydroxyfunctional groups and/or alkylene ether and/or alkyl groups locatedbetween neighboring amines present in the polymer backbone. The polymerbackbone may be defined as the series of covalently bounded atoms thattogether create the chain of the molecule. The polymers and polymericadducts (10 a) may be formed as an addition product arising from thereaction of a multifunctional amine compound with one or moremultifunctional and/or one or more monofunctional epoxy compounds.Alternatively, the polymers and polymeric adducts may be formed as anaddition product of at least one multifunctional amine compound and aplurality of epoxy compounds; alternatively, three or more epoxycompounds are utilized. The polymers and polymeric adducts may be formedby reacting an amine compound with one or more epoxy compounds, suchthat there are 1.3 to 3.8 reactive amine functional groups per reactiveepoxy functional group; alternatively, between 1.5 to 3.5 aminefunctional groups per epoxy functional group; alternatively, between 2.0to 3.0 amine functional groups per epoxy functional group.

The polymers or polymeric adducts (10 a) are water soluble. The polymersor polymeric adducts (10 a) are present in the latex product (1) in anamount between about 0.1 wt. % and 15.0 wt. % based on the weight of thepolymer particles (15) present in the anionically-stabilized latex (3).Alternatively, the polymers or polymeric adducts (10 a) may be presentin the latex product (1) in an amount between about 0.1 wt. % and 5.0wt. %.

In the context of the present disclosure, the term “water soluble” meansthat a homogeneous and transparent solution is formed upon blending thepolymers or polymeric adducts with water without the addition of anyco-solvent. The term “transparent solution” means that the solutiontransmits 90% or more of impinging visible light having a wavelength of540 nm. Transmittance of visible light having a 540 nm wavelength may bemeasured via any conventional spectrophotometry method. The polymers orpolymeric adducts blended with the anionically-stabilized latex remainsa fluid upon the addition of one or more compatible co-solvents. Theaqueous solution of the polymers or polymeric adducts formed accordingto the teachings of the present disclosure exhibits sufficientstability. The term “adducts” represents compounds that are formed bythe combination of amine and epoxy reactants via covalent bonds. Theterm “sufficiently stable” or “sufficient stability” means that theaqueous solution of polymeric adducts exhibits less than about a 30%viscosity change and maintains the transparent appearance whenmaintained at a temperature of 50° C. for 30 days. The viscosity isdetermined according to ASTM method D-2196 (ASTM International, WestConshohocken, Pa.).

The polymers and polymeric adducts (10 a) prepared according to theteachings of the present disclosure provide flexibility in controllingthe distance between the amine functional groups. The degree ofhydrophobicity exhibited by the polymers and polymeric adducts (10 a)can be changed by altering the number of carbon atoms in the chainlocated between the neighboring amine groups in the multi-functionalamine compound and the number of alkyl and/or alkylene ether linkageslocated between the epoxy groups in the multi-functional epoxy compound,the type of alkyl and/or alkylene ether linkages provided between theepoxy groups in the multi-functional epoxy compound, as well as the typeof alkyl group attached to the mono-epoxy compound. Thus polymers andpolymeric adducts can be formed that can impart different degrees ofhydrophobicity when desired. This flexibility allows the structure ofthe polymers and polymeric adducts (10 a) to be tailored in order toachieve both methanol stability and the desired quick setting propertywhen incorporated into a latex product by selecting the appropriatemultifunctional amine compound(s) and multifunctional/mono-functionalepoxy compound(s) from which the polymers and polymeric adducts areformed.

In addition, the number of alkyl and/or alkylene ether groups locatedbetween the epoxy groups present in the multifunctional epoxycompound(s) may also affect the degree of hydrophobicity associated withthe polymers and polymeric adducts (10 a). A longer alkyl and/oralkylene ether linkage located between the epoxy groups can result inmore hydrophobic polymers and polymeric adducts (10 a). Furthermore, theuse of a propylene ether linkage located between the epoxy groups formsmore hydrophobic polymers or polymeric adducts (10 a) than the use of anethylene ether linkage located between the epoxy groups.

The epoxy compounds used to form the polymers and polymeric adducts mayinclude polyfunctional epoxy compounds, monofunctional epoxy compounds,or a combination thereof. The polymers and polymeric adducts alsoexhibit a number average molecular weight that is in the range of about500 to about 1,000,000 unified amu or Daltons as measured by gelpermeation chromatography; alternatively between 500 to 500,000 Daltons;alternatively, between 500 to 200,000 Daltons. The polymers or polymericadducts may be either collected or dissolved in water. These polymers orpolymeric adducts also comprise a nitrogen atom percentage in the rangeof 5 to about 35%, wherein the nitrogen atom percentage (N_(atom) %) iscalculated according to Equation (1):

$\begin{matrix}{{{N_{atom}\%} = {100 \times \frac{\sum\;\left( {14.007 \times N_{A} \times M_{A}} \right)}{W_{R}}}},} & {{Eq}.\mspace{14mu}(1)}\end{matrix}$where N_(A) is the number of nitrogen atoms per multifunctional amine,M_(A) is the molar quantity of the multifunctional amine, and W_(R) isthe total weight of the reactants. Alternatively, the nitrogen atompercentage of the polymers or polymeric adducts is between about 10% toabout 20%.

The polymers and polymeric adducts may correspond to a formula definedas (F-1) below, where w, x, y, and z are integers ranging between 1 and20, 0 and 10, between 1 and 10,000, and between 0 and 10,000,respectively. The integer y may, alternatively, be 10 to about 5,000.When desirable, the integer y may be about 20 to about 1,000.

where R₄ is alkyl or

and R₃ is hydrogen or alkyl, and R₂ is alkyl, and R₁ is H, alkylhydroxide, alkyl ether hydroxide, or

These polymers and polymeric adducts may comprise 1.3 to 3.8 aminefunctional groups per hydroxyl functional group. Alternatively, thepolymers and polymeric adducts may comprise 1.5 to 3.5 amine functionalgroups per hydroxyl functional group; alternatively, 2.0 to 3.0 aminefunctional groups per hydroxyl functional group.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the polymers orpolymeric adducts may be mixed with the anionically-stabilized latex byany means known to one skilled in the art including, but not limited tomilling, shaking, stirring, high shear mixing, planetary or other lowshear mixing techniques, and combinations thereof. The aqueous solutionof the polymers or polymeric adducts is sufficiently stable and exhibitsa viscosity that is in the range of about 100 centipoise to about100,000 centipoise when the solution comprises about 70 wt. % of thepolymers or polymeric adducts dissolved in water. When desirable theviscosity is between about between 100 centipoise to about 50,000centipoise; alternatively, between 100 centipoise to 10,000 centipoise.The weight percent of the polymeric adducts in aqueous solution may bemeasured according to ASTM test method D-1259 (ASTM International, WestConshohocken, Pa.).

The aqueous solution also exhibits a pH value of about 8 to about 12;alternatively, about 9 to about 11; alternatively, less than about 10.5.The pH value of the blends of latex and polymeric adducts is measuredusing a pH probe at 25° C. Further details regarding the water solublepolymeric adducts of the present disclosure and the aqueous solutionsprepared therefrom are provided in U.S. Provisional Application No.62/183,304 filed on Jun. 23, 2015 by K-J. Kim, R. Hu, and J. L. Groveentitled “Water Soluble Polymers and Polymeric Adducts Along WithAqueous Solutions Thereof” (IR 4257PSP), the entire disclosure of whichis hereby incorporated by reference. Further details regarding the useof the water-soluble polymers or polymeric adducts of the presentdisclosure are provided in U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/183,324filed on Jun. 23, 2015 by K-J. Kim, M. Kaufman, and R. Hu entitled“Latex Products Having Polymers and Polymeric Adducts as a Quick-SettingAdditive” (IR 4246PSP), the entire content of which is herebyincorporated by reference.

The use of a volatile base compound in the latex product composition isoptional. When desirable, one or more volatile base compounds may beincluded in the composition in order to assist in maintaining the pH ofthe latex product composition above 8; alternatively, above 9;alternatively, between about 9 and about 10. When present the amount ofthe volatile base compounds may be on the order of 1.0 wt. % to about 10wt. % based on the weight of the polymer particles present in theanionically-stabilized latex. Due to the stability of the currentcomposition that includes the polymers or polymeric adducts in the latexproduct composition, the amount of volatile base optionally utilized canbe substantially less than the amount required by a similar latexproduct composition that incorporates conventional polyamines, forexample, polyethyleneimine. For example, the amount of volatile baseoptionally utilized in the latex product composition may be greater than25% less than the amount utilized in a conventional latex productcomposition that incorporates polyethyleneimine; alternatively, betweenabout 25% to about 75% less; alternatively, greater than 35% less. Whenpresent, the volatile base compounds may be selected from the group ofammonia, trimethylamine, triethylamine, dimethylethanol amine,morpholine, n-methyl morpholine, and a mixture or combination thereof.

The molecular weight of the polymers or polymeric adducts can alsoaffect the storage stability and fast-setting property of the latexproducts formed therefrom. The molecular weight of the polymers andpolymeric adducts of the present invention can be manipulated by theproper selection of the number of amine functional groups present in themultifunctional amine reactant, the number of epoxy groups present inthe epoxy reactants, and/or the equivalent ratio of amine to epoxyfunctional groups present. A higher molecular weight can be obtainedusing a multifunctional amine reactant having a higher number of aminefunctional groups, epoxy reactants having a higher number of epoxygroups, or when the ratio of amine to epoxide is close to unity (e.g.,1:1).

The polyfunctional or multi-functional epoxy compounds that can be usedto form the polymers or polymeric adducts may comprise, consist of, orconsist essentially of epoxides of unsaturated hydrocarbons and fattyacids/oils, epoxy ethers of multifunctional alcohols, or mixtures andcombinations thereof. The epoxides of unsaturated hydrocarbons and fattyacids/oils may include, without limitation, the epoxides of vinylcyclohexene, dicyclopentadiene, cyclohexadiene, cyclododecadiene,cyclododecatriene, isoprene, 1,6-hexadiene, butadiene, polybutadiene,divinyl benzene, castor oil, soybean oil and mixtures or combinationsthereof. The epoxy ethers of multifunctional alcohols may include, butnot be limited to, trimethyol propane triglycidyl ether, pentaerythritoltetraglycidyl ether, trimethyol ethane triglycidyl ether, ethyleneglycol diglycidyl ether, sorbitol glycidyl ethers, 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol diglycidyl ether, neopentyl glycol diglycidyl ether,2,2,4-trimethyl pentanediol diglycidyl ether, propylene glycoldiglycidyl ether, hydrogenated bisphenol A diglycidyl ether,1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether, 1,6-hexanediol diglycidyl ether,polyethylene glycol diglycidyl ether, polypropylene glycol diglycidylether, and combinations thereof. Alternatively, the multifunctionalepoxy compounds may include ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether,polypropylene glycol diglycidyl ether, or polyethylene glycol diglycidylether, and mixtures thereof.

The monofunctional epoxy compounds that can be used to form thepolymeric adducts may comprise, consist of, or consist essentially ofepoxy ethers of monofunctional alcohols, epoxy esters of monofunctionalalcohols, or mixture and combinations thereof. The epoxy ethers ofmonofunctional alcohols may include, without limitation, ethyl glycidylether, n-propyl glycidyl ether, isopropyl glycidyl ether, n-butylglycidyl ether, isobutyl glycidyl ether, t-butyl glycidyl ether, n-amylglycidyl ether, iso-amyl glycidyl ether, t-amyl glycidyl ether, n-hexylglycidyl ether, cetyl glycidyl ether, benzyl glycidyl ether,2,3-dimethoxy benzyl glycidyl ether, diacetone glycidyl ether, n-dodecylglycidyl ether, 2-ethyl hexyl glycidyl ether, and combinations thereof.The monofunctional epoxy esters of monofunctional alcohols may include,but not be limited to, glycidyl acetate, glycidyl neopentanoate,glycidyl 2-ethylhexanoate, glycidyl neodecanoate and combinationsthereof. Alternatively, the monofunctional epoxy compounds may includen-butyl glycidyl ether, isobutyl glycidyl ether, or t-butyl glycidylether, and mixtures thereof.

The multifunctional amines that can be used to form the polymericadducts may include, without limitation, ethylene diamine, butylenediamine, diethylene triamine, hexamethylene triamine, triethylenetetramine, polyoxyethylene amines, 2-methyl pentamethylene diamine,1,3-diamino propane, 1,4-diamino butane, 1,5-diamino pentane,1,6-diamino hexane, 1,2-diamino cyclohexane, isophorone diame,tetraethylene pentamine, 4,4′-methylene-bis-cyclohexyl amine,bis(3-methyl-4-aminocyclohexyl) methane,2,2-bis(3-methyl-4-aminocyclohexyl) propane, 2,6-bis(aminomethyl)norborane, cyclohexane diamine, 3,4-diamino furan, phenylene diamine,2,4-diamino toluene, polyalkylene oxide diamine, polyaklylene oxidetriamine, 2,6-diamino toluene and the mixtures or combinations thereof.Alternatively, the multifunctional amines may be diethylene triamine,hexamethylene triamine, or triethylene tetramine, and combinationsthereof.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aminecompound or reactant is provided in the range of about 25 wt. % to about60 wt. % and the epoxy compounds or reactants are provided in the rangeof about 40 wt. % to about 75 wt. % relative to the combined weight ofthe amine and epoxy reactants. Alternatively, the amine reactant isprovided in the range of about 30 wt. % to about 50 wt. % and the epoxyreactants are provided in the range of about 50 wt. % to about 70 wt. %relative to the combined weight of the amine and epoxy reactants.

When desirable, the amine reactant may be diethylene triamine (DETA) andthe epoxy reactants may be a mixture of ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether(EGDGE), n-butyl glycidyl ether (BGE), and polypropylene glycoldiglycidyl ether (PPGDGE) as shown in the reaction scheme represented inFIG. 2a . Alternatively, the amine reactant may be diethylene triamine(DETA) and the epoxy reactants may be a mixture of n-butyl glycidylether (BGE), and polyethylene glycol diglycidyl ether (PEGDGE) as shownin the reaction scheme represented in FIG. 2b . The resulting polymersand polymeric adducts formed therefrom may be represented by formula(F-1A) or (F-1B).

where R is H, alkyl hydroxide, alkyl ether hydroxide, or

The following Table 1 includes a non-exhaustive list of possibleamine:epoxy combinations that may be used to form the polymeric adductsaccording to the teachings of the present disclosure. The reactantsassociated with the abbreviations used in Table 1 include diethylenetriamine (DETA), ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether (EGDGE), n-butylglycidyl ether (BGE), 2-ethylhexyl glycidyl ether (EHGE); polypropyleneglycol diglycidyl ether (PPGDGE), and polyethylene glycol diglycidylether (PEGDGE).

TABLE 1 Several Specific Combinations of Reactants Used to FormPolymeric Adducts (PA) # Amine Epoxy 1 Epoxy 2 Epoxy 3 PA-1 DETA EGDGEBGE PPGDGE PA-2 DETA EGDGE — — PA-3 DETA EGDGE BGE — PA-4 DETA EGDGEEHGE PPGDGE PA-5 DETA EGDGE BGE PEGDGE

The storage stability of a latex product containing ananionically-stabilized latex and polymers or polymeric adducts largelydepends on the likelihood of coagulation between the two components inthe aqueous phase. The basicity and molecular weight of the polymers orpolymeric adducts should be carefully manipulated to prevent theinteraction with the polymer particles in the anionically-stabilizedlatex during storage, and to promote coagulation with the polymerparticles during the film forming stage during application. Referringnow to FIG. 1b , the latex product (1) is applied to a substrate by anymeans known to one skilled in the art, including but not limited to rollcoating, spray coating, spin coating, dip coating, brushing, screenprinting, ink jet application, and streaming, to name a few. Spraycoating includes airless spray, air spray, high volume low pressure(HVLP) air spray, and air-assisted airless spray, among others.

Once the latex product (1) is applied to the substrate, the aqueousmedium (20) begins to evaporate and the formation of a film (11) beginsto occur. The evaporation of the aqueous medium (5) causes the aminefunctionality in the polymers or polymeric adducts (10 b) to interactwith the negatively-charged polymer particles (15), thereby facilitatingflocculation.

The latex product (1) may further comprise, consist of, or consistessentially of one or more additional polymers, which may or may not beanionically-stabilized, as well as any other known or desired additives.The additional polymer may include, but not be limited to, a polymer orcopolymer that is derived from one or more of (meth)acrylate, vinylaromatic, ethylenically unsaturated aliphatic, or vinyl ester monomers,as well as various combinations thereof. A formulated coatingcomposition containing the latex product (1) could be prepared throughblending, mixing, or the like, with other additives known to thoseskilled in the art. The other additives, may comprise withoutlimitation, any type of pigments or colorants, fillers, dispersants orsurfactants, coalescing agents, pH neutralizing agents, plasticizers,defoamers, thickeners, biocides, co-solvents, rheology modifiers,wetting or spreading agents, leveling agents, conductive additives,adhesion promoters, anti-blocking agents, anti-cratering agents oranti-crawling agents, anti-freezing agents, corrosion inhibitors,anti-static agents, flame retardants, optical brighteners, UV absorbersor other light stabilizers, chelating agents, crosslinking agents,flattening agents, flocculants, humectants, insecticides, lubricants,odorants, oils, waxes or anti-slip aids, soil repellants, or stainresistant agents, as well as mixtures and combinations thereof. Theselection of additives incorporated into a coating composition isdetermined based on a variety of factors, including the nature of thepolymer or latex dispersion and the intended use of the coatingcomposition, to name a few.

Several examples of pigments and colorants include, without limitation,metal oxides, such as titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or iron oxide, aswell as organic dyes, or combinations thereof. Examples of fillers mayinclude, but not be limited to, calcium carbonate, nepheline syenite,feldspar, diatomaceous earth, talc, aluminosilicates, silica, alumina,clay, kaolin, mica, pyrophyllite, perlite, baryte, or Wollastonite, andcombinations thereof.

Several examples of co-solvents and plasticizers include ethyleneglycol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, and combinations thereof,among others. Typical coalescents, which aid in film formation duringdrying, include but are not limited to, ethylene glycol monomethylether, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether, ethylene glycol monoethyl etheracetate, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether acetate, diethylene glycolmonobutyl ether, and diethylene glycol monoethyl ether acetate, as wellas combinations thereof.

Several examples of dispersants may include, without limitation, anyknown nonionic surfactants, such as ammonium, alkali metal, alkalineearth metal, and lower alkyl quaternary ammonium salts ofsulfosuccinates, higher fatty alcohol sulfates, aryl sulfonates, alkylsulfonates, alkylaryl sulfonates and/or ionic surfactants, such asalkylphenoxy polyethoxyethanols or ethylene oxide derivatives of longchain carboxylic acids, as well as polyacid dispersants, such aspolyacrylic acid or polymethylacrylic acid or salts thereof, andhydrophobic co-polymeric dispersants, such as co-polymers of acrylicacid, methacrylic acid, or maleic acid with hydrophobic monomers.

Several examples of the thickening agents may include, withoutlimitation, hydrophobically-modified ethylene oxide urethane (HEUR)polymers, hydrophobic ally-modified alkali soluble emulsion (HASE)polymers, hydrophobically-modified hydroxyethyl celluloses (HMHECs),hydrophobically-modified polyacrylamide, and combinations thereof.

The incorporation of various defoamers, such as, for example,polydimethylsiloxanes (PDMS) or polyether-modified polysiloxanes, may bedone to minimize foaming during mixing and/or application of the coatingcomposition. Suitable biocides can be incorporated to inhibit the growthof bacteria and other microbes in the coating composition duringstorage.

Coatings, which may include, without limitation, paints, adhesives,sealants, caulks, and inks, formed from the latex compositions describedherein, as well as methods of forming these coatings are believed to bewithin the scope of the present disclosure. Generally, coatings areformed by applying a coating formulation described herein to a surface,and allowing the coating to dry to form the coating or film. Theresulting dried coatings typically comprise, at minimum, thenon-volatile components in an anionically-stabilized latex and thepolymers or polymer adducts of the present disclosure. The coatingformulations and/or the dried coatings can further comprise one or moreadditional polymers and/or additives as described above or known to oneskilled in the art. The coating thickness can vary depending upon theapplication of the coating. The thickness of the coating may be anythickness desirable for use in a particular application; alternatively,the range for the dry thickness of the coating is between about 0.025 mm(1 mil) to about 2.5 mm (100 mils).

The coating formulations can be applied to a variety of differentsurfaces including, but not limited to metal, asphalt, concrete, stone,ceramic, wood, plastic, polymer, polyurethane foam, glass, andcombinations thereof. The coating compositions can be applied to theinterior or exterior surfaces of a commercial product or manufacturedgood or item. When desirable, the surface may be an architecturalsurface, such as a roof, a wall, a floor, or a combination thereof.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, each coatingformulation may be formulated to meet the requirements for use in aspecific application area, including but not limited to, traffic paint,decorative or architectural, pressure sensitive adhesive, deck,“dry-fall”, roof, cementitious, and primer applications, as furtherhighlighted by the following examples. The coating formulation used ineach of these applications may be formulated such that it comprises thelatex product composition, as previously described above or furtherdefined herein, and optionally, one or more additional polymers or otherknown or desired additives. The latex composition used in these coatingformulations, generally, includes an anionically-stabilized latex;optionally, at least one volatile base compound; and either one or moreof polymers comprising the formula (F-1); an addition product formed byreacting at least one multifunctional amine compound with one or morepolyfunctional and/or mono-functional epoxy compounds; or a polymericadduct that has a backbone comprised of a plurality of amine functionalgroups and hydroxyl functional groups.

The latex coating formulations that are formulated according to theteachings of the present disclosure for use in decorative orarchitectural applications generally exhibit better stability at low pH(e.g., pH ranging form 7-11), fast-dry (setting) time, and improvedwater-resistance in comparison to a conventional latex coatingformulation. The latex coating formulations of the present disclosurethat are formulated for use pressure sensitive adhesives, also exhibitbetter stability at low pH (pHs ranging from 6 to 9), as well as similarif not better performance with respect to substrate adhesion and/or theamount of time required to become tack free or dry-through thanconventional latex pressure sensitive adhesives. Similarly, the latexcoating formulations of the present disclosure that are used as in roofor primer coating applications, exhibit stability at low pH (e.g., pHsfrom 7 to 9) and fast setting performance as compared to conventionallatex coating formulations. Additionally, other latex coatingformulations that are prepared according to the teachings of the presentdisclosure, including those coatings or paints formulated for use intraffic paint, deck, and “dry fall” applications, as well as varioussealants, caulks, and inks may exhibit similar characteristics andbenefits over conventional latex formulations. Conventional latexcompositions include those compositions that do not include anyfast-drying additive (“As-Is”), as well as those compositions whichinclude a conventional fast-drying additive, such as polyethyleneimine(PEI).

Aspects of the invention are as follows:

1. A latex product composition comprising:

an anionically-stabilized latex; and

one or more polymers, the polymers comprising the formula (F-1):

where R₄ is alkyl or

and R₃ is hydrogen or alkyl, and R₂ is alkyl, and R₁ is H, alkylhydroxide, alkyl ether hydroxide, or

wherein, w, x, y, and z are integers ranging between 1 and 20, between 0and 10, between 1 and 10,000, and between 0 and 10,000, respectively.

2. The latex product composition according to claim 1, wherein thepolymers comprise 1.3 to 3.8 amine functional group per hydroxylfunctional group; wherein the polymers are water soluble and have anumber average molecular weight in the range of about 500 to about1,000,000 Daltons.3. The latex product composition according to any of claim 1 or 2,wherein the polymers are dissolved in water to form an aqueous solutionhaving a viscosity in the range of about 100 centipoise to about 100,000centipoise and a pH value of about 8 to about 12 when the aqueoussolution comprises 70 wt. % of the polymers dissolved in the aqueousmedium; the aqueous solution exhibits less than about a 30% viscositychange and maintains a transparent appearance when maintained at atemperature of 50° C. for 30 days.4. The latex product composition according to any of claims 1-3, whereinthe anionically-stabilized latex comprises polymer particles dispersedin an aqueous medium with up to 10 wt. % of an anionic surfactant basedon the weight of the polymer particles; the polymer particles areselected as one from the group of an acrylic copolymer, astyrene-acrylic copolymer, a vinyl-acrylic copolymer, a vinyl copolymer,and a combination or mixture thereof;wherein the polymers are present in an amount between about 0.1 wt. %and 15.0 wt. % based on the weight of the polymer particles present inthe anionically-stabilized latex;5. The latex product composition according to any of claims 1-4, whereinthe polymers are selected as

where R is H, alkyl hydroxide, alkyl ether hydroxide, or

6. A latex product composition comprising:

an anionically-stabilized latex; and

an addition product of at least one multifunctional amine compoundreacted with one or more polyfunctional epoxy compounds, one or moremonofunctional epoxy compounds, or a combination thereof;

wherein the amine compound and the one or more epoxy compounds provide1.3 to 3.8 amine functional group per epoxy functional group;

wherein the addition product is water soluble, has a number averagemolecular weight in the range of about 500 to about 1,000,000 Daltons,and comprises a nitrogen atom percentage of 5 to about 35%.

7. The latex product composition according to claim 6, wherein thepolyfunctional epoxy compounds comprise epoxides of unsaturatedhydrocarbons and fatty acids/oils, epoxy ethers of multifunctionalalcohols, or combinations thereof and the monofunctional epoxy compoundscomprise epoxy ethers of monofunctional alcohols, monoepoxide ofunsaturated hydrocarbons, or combinations thereof;

wherein the multifunctional amine compounds are selected from the groupof ethylene diamine, butylene diamine, diethylene triamine,hexamethylene triamine, triethylene tetramine, polyoxyethylene amines,2-methyl pentamethylene diamine, 1,3-diamino propane, 1,4-diaminobutane, 1,5-diamino pentane, 1,6-diamino hexane, 1,2-diaminocyclohexane, isophorone diamine, tetraethylene pentamine,4,4′-methylene-bis-cyclohexyl amine, bis(3-methyl-4aminocyclohexyl)methane, 2,2-bis(3-methyl-4-aminocyclohexyl) propane,2,6-bis(aminomethyl) norborane, cyclohexane diamine, 3,4-diamino furan,phenylene diamine, polyalkylene oxide diamine, polyalkylene oxidetriamine, 2,4-diamino toluene, 2,6 diamino toluene and the combinationsthereof.

8. The latex product composition according to claim 7, wherein the atleast one multifunctional amine compound is diethylene triamine (DETA)and the one or more polyfunctional epoxy compounds and/or monofunctionalepoxy compounds are selected from the group of ethylene glycoldiglycidylether (EGDGE), n-butyl glycidyl ether (BGE), and polypropyleneglycol diglycidyl ether (PPGDGE), and polyethylene glycol diglycidylether (PEGDGE).9. The latex product composition according to any of claims 6-8, whereinthe addition product is dissolved in an aqueous medium to form anaqueous solution having a viscosity in the range of about 100 centipoiseto about 100,000 centipoise and a pH value of about 8 to about 12 whenthe aqueous solution comprises 70 wt. % of the addition product; theaqueous solution exhibits less than about a 30% viscosity change andmaintains a transparent appearance when maintained at a temperature of50° C. for 30 days.10. The latex product composition according to any of claims 6-9,wherein the addition product has the formula (F-1):

where R₄ is alkyl or

and R₃ is hydrogen or alkyl, and R₂ is alkyl, and R₁ is H, alkylhydroxide, alkyl ether hydroxide, or

wherein, w, x, y, and z are integers ranging between 1 and 20, between 0and 10, between 1 and 10,000, and between 0 and 10,000, respectively.

11. The latex product composition according to any of claims 6-10,wherein the anionically-stabilized latex comprises polymer particlesdispersed in an aqueous medium with up to 10 wt. % of an anionicsurfactant based on the weight of the polymer particles; the polymerparticles are selected from the group of an acrylic copolymer, astyrene-acrylic copolymer, a vinyl-acrylic copolymer, a vinyl copolymer,and a combination or mixture thereof;

wherein the addition product is present in an amount between about 0.1wt. % and 15.0 wt. % based on the weight of the polymer particlespresent in the anionically-stabilized latex.

12. The latex product composition according to any of claims 6-11,wherein the addition product is selected as

where R is H, alkyl hydroxide, alkyl ether hydroxide, or

13. A latex product composition comprising:

an anionically-stabilized latex; and

a polymeric adduct having a backbone comprising a plurality of aminefunctional groups and hydroxyl functional groups, the polymeric adducthaving a number average molecular weight in the range of about 500 toabout 1,000,000 Daltons, and comprises a nitrogen atom percentage of 5to about 35%;

wherein the polymeric adduct is water soluble and formed by reacting anamine compound with one or more epoxy compounds, such that there are 1.3to 3.8 reactive amine functional groups per reactive epoxy functionalgroups.

14. The latex product composition according to claim 13, wherein thepolymeric adduct has the formula (F-1):

where R₄ is alkyl or

and R₃ is hydrogen or alkyl, and R₂ is alkyl, and R₁ is H, alkylhydroxide, alkyl ether hydroxide, or

wherein, w, x, y, and z are integers ranging between 1 and 20, between 0and 10, between 1 and 10,000, and between 0 and 10,000, respectively.

15. The latex product composition according to any of claim 13 or 14,wherein the polymeric adduct is dissolved in an aqueous medium to forman aqueous solution having a viscosity in the range of about 100centipoise to about 100,000 centipoise and a pH value of about 8 toabout 12 when the aqueous solution comprises 70 wt. % of the additionproduct; the aqueous solution exhibits less than about a 30% viscositychange and maintains a transparent appearance when maintained at atemperature of 50° C. for 30 days.16. The latex product composition according to any of claims 13-15,wherein the anionically-stabilized latex comprises polymer particlesdispersed in an aqueous medium with up to 10 wt. % of an anionicsurfactant based on the weight of the polymer particles; the polymerparticles are selected from the group of an acrylic copolymer, astyrene-acrylic copolymer, a vinyl-acrylic copolymer, a vinyl copolymer,and a combination or mixture thereof;

wherein the polymeric adduct is present in an amount between about 0.1wt. % and 15.0 wt. % based on the weight of the polymer particlespresent in the anionically-stabilized latex.

17. The latex product composition according to any of claims 13-17,wherein the polymer adduct is selected as

where R is H, alkyl hydroxide, alkyl ether hydroxide, or

18. The latex product composition according to any of claims 1-17,wherein the latex product composition forms a coating, paint, adhesive,sealant, caulk, or ink that is water resistant.19. The latex product composition according to claim 18, wherein thecoating, paint, adhesive, sealant, caulk, or ink is track-free ordry-through in a time that is at least 25% faster than the time requiredfor a similar latex composition that does not include the polymers to betack-free or dry-through.20. A coating formulation for use as a pressure sensitive adhesive, thecoating formulation comprising the latex product composition accordingto any of claim 1, 6, or 13.21. A coating formulation for use in a decorative or architecturalapplication, the coating formulation comprising the latex productcomposition according to any of claim 1, 6, or 13.22. A coating formulation for use in a roof application, the coatingformulation comprising the latex product composition according to any ofclaim 1, 6, or 13.23. A coating formulation for use in a primer application, the coatingformulation comprising the latex product composition according to any ofclaim 1, 6, or 13.24. A coating formulation for use in a cementitious coating application,the coating formulation comprising the latex product compositionaccording to any of claim 1, 6, or 13.25. The coating formulation according to any of claims 20-24, whereinthe coating formulation further comprises one or more additives selectedfrom the group of additional polymers, pigments or colorants, fillers,dispersants or surfactants, coalescent agents, pH neutralizing agents,plasticizers, defoamers, thickeners, biocides, co-solvents, rheologymodifiers, wetting or spreading agents, leveling agents, conductiveadditives, adhesion promoters, anti-blocking agents, anti-crateringagents or anti-crawling agents, anti-freezing agents, corrosioninhibitors, anti-static agents, flame retardants, optical brighteners,UV absorbers or other light stabilizers, chelating agents, crosslinkingagents, flattening agents, flocculants, humectants, insecticides,lubricants, odorants, oils, waxes or anti-slip aids, soil repellants,and stain resistant agents.

The following specific examples are given to illustrate the polymers orpolymer adducts and the latex product compositions of the presentdisclosure, as well as the latex coating formulations formed therefromand methods of preparing the same, and should not be construed to limitthe scope of the disclosure. Those skilled-in-the-art, in light of thepresent disclosure, will appreciate that many changes can be made in thespecific embodiments which are disclosed herein and still obtain alikeor similar result without departing from or exceeding the spirit orscope of the disclosure. One skilled in the art will further understandthat any properties reported herein represent properties that areroutinely measured and can be obtained by multiple different methods.The methods described herein represent one such method and other methodsmay be utilized without exceeding the scope of the present disclosure.

Example 1—Preparation of Polymers or Polymeric Adducts

This example demonstrates the formation of polymers or polymeric adductsaccording to the reaction scheme shown in FIG. 2. In particular, theformation of polymer adducts (PA-5) as described in Table 1 is used anexample to demonstrate the formation of the polymers or polymer adducts.A total of 60 parts of diethylene triamine (DETA) is charged into areaction vessel equipped with a nitrogen blanket. A total of 24 parts ofethylene glycol diglycidyl ether (EGDGE), 72 parts of n-butyl glycidylether (BGE), and 14 parts of polypropylene glycol diglycidyl ether(PEGDGE) having a 640 number average molecular weight are mixed in abeaker and transferred into an addition funnel. Under mild stirring, thereaction vessel temperature is raised to 80° C. The contents of theaddition funnel are added into the stirred reaction vessel graduallyover one hour while maintaining the temperature of the reaction vesselbelow 110° C. The reaction vessel is held at 80° C. for 2.5 hours afterthe addition of the mixture of EGDGE, BGE, and PEGDGE is completed. Then73 parts of deionized water is charged into the reaction vessel andmixed well to form an aqueous solution. The resulting aqueous solutionexhibits a pH value of 10.5 and a viscosity of 400 centipoise (at 25°C.), as well as being found to be sufficiently stable.

Example 2—General Test Methodology for Comparison of Latex CoatingFormulations

The performance of coating formulations that incorporate the polymers orpolymer adducts of the present disclosure into an anionically-stabilizedlatex can be compared against conventional coating formulations that donot contain an additive that imparts fast-dry performance. Additionally,performance can be evaluated comparing the composition of the currentdisclosure and coatings formulations that contain the sameanionically-stabilized latex in the presence of another fast-dryingpolyamine compound, such as polyethyleneimine (PEI). A polyaminecompound, e.g., polyethyleneimine (PEI), is added to ananionically-stabilized latex only after the pH of the latex has beenincreased to 10 or greater by the addition of a volatile base compound(e.g., ammonia, etc.) in order to maintain both immediate and long-termstorage of the resulting latex coating composition.

Stability at Low pH—

The relative stability of latex coating compositions comprising thepolymers or polymer adducts of the present disclosure can be comparedagainst comparable latex coating formulations that contain another typeof fast-dry additive. A latex is first adjusted to a predetermined pHvalue using aqueous ammonia. Subsequently, the polymers or polymericamine-epoxy adducts of the present disclosure are added to thepH-adjusted latex at 2.0 wt. % based on the overall latex solids contentto form a latex coating composition. A separate, comparative latexcoating formulation is similarly prepared by adding polyethyleneimine(PEI) to an amount of the pH-adjusted latex at 2.0 wt. %. The resultinglatex coating compositions are considered stable when they aresufficiently free of grit and substantially free-flowing. Failure occurswhen the latex coating compositions become coagulated and are unable tobe agitated. The above procedure is repeated using latexes adjusted to alower predetermined pH value until one determines the lowest pH limitwhere stability of the resulting latex coating composition ismaintained.

Fast-Setting Performance—

Dry times for latex coating compositions can be compared by firstadjusting the latex to a pH of 10.5 with aqueous ammonia, then addingeither 2 wt. % based on the overall latex solids of either the polymersor polymeric adducts of the present disclosure or another fast-dryadditive, such as PEI. Next, an 8 mil drawdown of the coatingcomposition results in the formation of a film that is subsequentlyevaluated by touch according to ASTM D-1640 (ASTM International, WestConshocken, Pa.). Tack-free remains as previously defined above to bethe time after initial drawdown when the film does not have a tackyfeeling when touched with a human finger. Similarly, the definition ofdry-through remains as previously defined above to be the time afterinitial drawdown when the film does not break when gentle pressure andtwisting is applied with a human finger.

Water Resistance/Adhesion—

The water resistance and ability to maintain adhesion to a substrate forfilms formed from latex coating compositions comprising the polymers orpolymeric adducts of the present disclosure can be compared toconventional latex coating formulations that do not contain an additivethat imparts fast-dry performance. Additionally, the same performancecan be evaluated comparing the composition of the current disclosure andcoatings formulations that contain another fast-drying additive, e.g.,PEI. The films are prepared as previously described above by adjustingan anionically-stabilized latex to a pH of 10.5 with aqueous ammoniafollowed by the addition of 2.0 wt. % based on the overall solidscontent of the latex of either the polymers or polymeric adducts of thepresent disclosure or PEI as the comparative additive. The resultinglatex coating compositions are then coated onto a glass substrate usingeither the 8-mil drawdown technique previously described above. Thefilms are dried at room temperature (about 25° C.) for 24 hours. Thecoated substrate is then submerged in water for another 24 hours priorto visual inspection. The films that pass visual inspection maintainadhesion to the glass surface and cannot be easily removed from theglass substrate, while films that fail visual inspection haveconsiderable loss of adhesion to the glass surface.

The use of the polymers or polymer adducts of the present disclosure ina latex coating, paint, adhesive, sealant, caulk, or ink compositioneither performs as well as conventional latex compositions or enhancesone or more of the stability at low pH, fast-setting performance, andwater resistance/adhesion properties of such latex compositions.Conventional latex compositions include those compositions that do notinclude any fast-drying additive (“As-Is”), as well as thosecompositions which include a conventional fast-drying additive, such aspolyethyleneimine (PEI).

In the following examples, latex coating formulations that include thepolymers or polymer adducts of the present disclosure, which are formedfrom DETA, EGDGE, BGE, and PPGDGE reactants (see PA-1, Table 1), arecompared against both similar latex coating formulations that contain nofast-dry additive and latex coating formulations that comprisepolyethyleneimine (PEI) as the fast-drying additive. The polymers orpolymer adducts (PA-1) utilized in the following examples exhibit aviscosity of about 400 centipoise and comprise about 14% nitrogen atompercentage with about 2 amine functional groups being present per epoxyfunctional group.

Example 3—Comparison of Latex Composition Performance

A latex product used in a traffic paint application that comprises 1-2wt. % of the polymers or polymeric adducts is sufficient to affordfast-drying of a cast film as shown in Table 2. In fact, the use of thepolymers or polymeric adducts can shorten the dry time of compositionsof a vinyl acrylic latex (Encor® 6413, Arkema Inc.), an acrylic latex(X31215, Arkema Inc.), and a styrene acrylic latex (X41191, Arkema Inc.)as compared to these latex products without the polymers or polymericadducts. The latex products prepared using the polymers or polymericadducts exhibit an improvement in time relative to the appliedcoating(s) being either tack-free (TF) or dry-through (DT) film in lesstime than required for conventional latex products containing the sameanionically-stabilized latexes without the polymers or polymericadducts.

A coating or film prepared using latex product compositions thatincludes the polymers or polymeric adducts of the present disclosure areshown in Table 2 to be tack-free and/or dry-through in a time that is atleast 25% faster than the time necessary for coating or film preparedusing a similar latex without polymers or polymeric adducts to betack-free and/or dry-through. When desirable, the coatings preparedusing the latex product compositions of the present disclosure aretack-free in a time that is greater than 40% faster than a coatingprepared using a similar latex without polymers or polymeric adducts;alternatively, between about 50% and 85% faster; alternatively, at least60% faster.

Dry times are evaluated by first adjusting the latex product to a pH of10.5 with aqueous ammonia, then adding 2 wt. % of the polymer orpolymeric adduct based on latex solids. Next, an 8 mil drawdown of thelatex is prepared and the film is evaluated by touch. Tack-free isdefined as the time after initial drawdown when the film does not have atacky feeling when touched with a human finger and dry-through isdefined as the time after initial drawdown when the film does not breakwhen gentle pressure and twisting is applied with a human finger (seeASTM D-1640, ASTM International, West Conshohoken, Pa.).

In the comparative latex product, a polyamine compound ofpolyethyleneimine (PEI) was added to the anionically-stabilized latexonly after the pH of the latex emulsion has been increased to 10 orgreater by a volatile base. This is required for both immediate andlong-term storage of the resulting latex product. An increase in pH to10 or greater hinders the commercialization of the latex products due toan increase in overall cost, increased odor, as well as processinglimitations. The polymers or polymeric adducts of the present disclosureare shown in Table 3 to be sufficiently stable and effective in emulsionpolymers at a pH below 10. Table 3 compares the pH range necessary toprovide relative stability to conventional PEI containing latex productsagainst similar latex products that contain the polymers or polymericadducts of the present disclosure.

TABLE 2 Comparison of Tack-Free and Dry-Through Film for ConventionalLatex Products and Latex Products Prepared According to the PresentDisclosure. Tack-Free/Dry Through Film (Min) Latex Products w/2%Conventional Polymers or Latex Products Polymeric Adducts Encor ® 6413 -16/17  3/4 vinyl acrylic X31215 - 22/>22 5/8 acrylic X41191 - 22/>2213/19 styrene acrylic

To evaluate the relative stability of the blend of latex and the currentinvention, a latex product was adjusted to pH value of 9.0 using aqueousammonia. Subsequently, the polymers or polymeric adducts prepared inExperiment 1 below and polyethyleneimine are added separately to thelatex at 2.0 wt. % based on latex solids content. The resulting latexproduct composition is considered stable when it is sufficiently free ofgrit and free-flowing. Failure occurs when the latex product becomescoagulated and is unable to be agitated. The pH of the latex productscan be much lower when the latex product compositions use the polymersor polymeric adducts of the present disclosure instead ofpolyethyleneimine. The use of a volatile base compound in the latexproduct composition is optional. When desired one or more volatile basecompounds may be included in the composition in order to assist inmaintaining the pH of the latex product composition above 8;alternatively, above 9; alternatively, between about 9 and about 10.

TABLE 3 Lowest pH Measurable for Stable Latex Products Lowest pH LimitMeasured for Stable Latex Products Latex Products w/2% Latex Productsw/2% Polymers or Polymeric Polyethyleneimine Adducts (PA-1) Encor ®6413 - 9.5 9.0 vinyl acrylic X31215 - 10.5 9.0 acrylic X41191 - 10.5 9.0styrene acrylic

Coatings applied using the latex products prepared according to theteachings of the present disclosure also provide the benefit of enhancedfilm integrity and adhesion after being exposed to water. To demonstratethis benefit, an anionically-stabilized latex is adjusted to pH 10.5with aqueous ammonia and 2 wt. % of the polymer or polymeric adduct ofthe present disclosure is added. The resulting latex product is coatedonto a glass substrate, dried at room temperature for 24 hours, and thensubmerged in water for 24 hours. This experiment is conducted inparallel with a film cast from the original anionically-stabilizedlatex, which does not include the polymers or polymeric adducts of thepresent disclosure. The films that pass this evaluation maintainadhesion to the glass surface and cannot be easily removed. Referringnow to FIGS. 3a & 3 b, films cast from conventional latex productscomprising either a conventional X31215 latex (101) product or a X41191latex (111) product, respectively, display very poor water resistance,as shown by the peeling of the film from the surface of the substrate.However, similar latex product compositions using the polymers orpolymeric adducts of the present disclosure with the X31215 latex (121)and X41191 latex (131) retain excellent adhesion and integrity to asubstrate, e.g., a glass surface.

Example 4—Comparison of Latex Coatings Used in Architectural orDecorative Applications

The stability at low pH, fast-setting performance, and waterresistance/adhesion measured according to Example 2 for various acryliclatex coating compositions comprising the polymers or polymeric adductsof the present disclosure are compared in Table 4 against the measuredresults obtained for similar latex formulations that comprise either PEIor no fast drying additive (“As Is”).

TABLE 4 Stability at low pH, Fast-Setting Performance, & WaterResistance/Adhesion Results for Architectural or Decorative LatexCoatings Fast-setting Performance Water Low pH (minutes to tackResistance/ Stability free/dry-through) Adhesion Polymeric PolymericPolymeric Latex Adducts Adducts Adducts No. PEI (PA-1) As Is PEI (PA-1)As Is (PA-1) L-1 >8.6 8.6* >20/>20 1/3 6/8  Fail Pass L-2 8.0*8.0* >60/>60 5/8 8/10 Fail Fail L-3 9.5 8.4* >20/>20 5/7 8/10 Pass PassL-4 >8.1 8.1* >20/>20 NA 8/12 Pass Pass *= no aqueous ammonia was addedLatex L-1 = Expt. Encor ® 626 - experimental acrylic emulsion (ArkemaInc.) Latex L-2 = Encor ® 662 - acrylic emulsion (Arkema Inc.) Latex L-3= Neocar ® 820 - acrylic emulsion (Arkema Inc.) Latex L-4 = Neocar ®850 - acrylic emulsion (Arkema Inc.)

In all cases, the latex coating compositions that contain the polymeradducts of the present disclosure exhibit as good if not better pHstability as compared to latex coating compositions that contain PEI, apolyamine that can be used to impart fast-dry to conventional latexcompositions. For a given latex coating composition (L-1, L-3, and L-4)containing the polymeric adducts of the present disclosure, stability isachievable at a lower pH than for a comparable latex coating compositioncontaining PEI as the fast drying additive. Thus, when the polymers orpolymeric adducts of the present disclosure are incorporated into thelatex coating composition, no or less additional amount of a volatilebase (e.g., ammonia, trimethylamine, triethylamine, etc.) needs to beadded to the coating composition in order to achieve long-termstability.

Latex coating compositions (L-1 to L-4) that contain the polymericadducts of the present disclosure are found to be tack-free anddry-through in less time than a similar latex coating composition thatdoes not contain any fast drying additive (“As Is”). In addition, latexcoating compositions that contain the polymeric adducts of the presentdisclosure exhibit similar tack-free and dry-through properties as latexcoating compositions that include PEI as the fast drying additive.

When a latex coating composition (L-1 to L-4) that includes thepolymeric adducts of the present disclosure is cast into a film on aglass plate, the resulting film exhibits the same or greater adhesion tothe glass substrate when exposed to water, as compared to the comparablelatex coating compositions that are absent the polymeric adducts (“AsIs”).

This example clearly demonstrates that the novel compositions of thepresent disclosure provide useful architectural and decorative coatingswith fast setting and/or water resistance property at low pH values ofabout below 9.0.

Example 5—Comparison of Latex Compositions Used as Pressure-SensitiveAdhesives

The stability at low pH, fast setting performance, and waterresistance/adhesion measured according to Example 2 for various acryliclatex pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) compositions that include thepolymers or polymeric adducts of the present disclosure are compared inTable 5 against the measured results obtained for similar latex PSAformulations that comprise either PEI or no fast drying additive (“AsIs”). The only change in the test methodology of Example 2 that isutilized in the comparison of the PSA compositions within this exampleis the addition of a total of 1.6 wt. % of the polymeric adducts or PEIto the latex instead of 2.0 wt. % as described in Example 2.

TABLE 5 Stability at low pH, Fast Setting Performance, & WaterResistance/ Adhesion Results for Pressure Sensitive Adhesives (PSA).Fast-setting Low pH Performance Water Resistance/ Stability (minutes toAdhesion Poly- tack free) Poly- meric Polymeric meric Latex AdductsAdducts Adducts No. PEI (PA-1) As Is PEI (PA-1) As Is PEI (PA-1) L-5 8.57.0* >30 3 >30 Fail Pass Pass L-6 5.5* 5.5* >30 14 >30 Fail Pass Pass *=no aqueous ammonia was added Latex L-5 = Encor ® 9290 - acrylic emulsion(Arkema Inc.) Latex L-6 = EX 60-14.01 - experimental acrylic emulsion(Arkema Inc.)

Generally, latex PSA compositions that contain the polymer adducts ofthe present disclosure exhibit at least the same, if not greater pHstability than comparable latex PSA compositions that contain PEI, apolyamine that is presently used to impart fast-dry to latexcompositions. Thus, for a given latex PSA composition (L-5) containingthe polymeric adducts of the present disclosure, stability is achievableat a lower pH than for a comparable latex PSA composition containing PEIas the fast drying additive. Thus, when the polymers or polymericadducts of the present disclosure are incorporated into the latex PSAcomposition, no or less additional amount of a volatile base compound(e.g., ammonia, trimethylamine, triethylamine, etc.) needs to be addedto the PSA composition in order to achieve long-term stability.

Latex PSA compositions (L-5 & L-6) that contain the polymeric adducts ofthe present disclosure are found to be tack-free in about the same timeas a similar latex PSA composition that does not contain any fast dryingadditive (“As Is”). However, latex PSA compositions (L-5 & L-6) thatcontain polyethyleneimine are found to be tack-free in dramaticallyshortened time. This is undesirable for PSA application. When a latexPSA composition (L-5 & L-6) that includes the polymeric adducts of thepresent disclosure is cast into a film on a glass plate, the resultingfilm exhibits greater adhesion to the glass substrate when exposed towater, as compared to the comparable latex coating compositions that areabsent the polymeric adducts (“As Is”). The latex compositions targetedfor the pressure-sensitive adhesives typically have far lower glasstransition temperatures than the ambient temperature as a long tack timeis desired. This example clearly demonstrates that the compositions ofthe present disclosure provide useful pressure sensitive adhesives withimproved water resistance and workable tack time at low pH values ofabout below 7.0.

Example 6—Comparison of Latex Coatings Used in Elastomeric RoofApplications

The stability at low pH and fast setting performance measured accordingto Example 2 for various acrylic latex coating compositions comprising 2wt. % of polymers or polymeric adducts of the present disclosure arecompared in Table 6 against the measured results obtained for similarlatex formulations that comprise either PEI or no fast drying additive(“As Is”). The only change in the test methodology of Example 2 that isutilized in the comparison of the roof coating compositions within thisexample is the addition of a total of 1.0 wt. % of the polymeric adductsor PEI to the latex instead of 2.0 wt. % as described in Example 2 isutilized for comparing the fast-setting performance and associated heataging characteristics.

Generally, latex coating compositions that contains the polymer adductsof the present disclosure generally exhibit greater pH stability ascompared to the latex coating composition that contains PEI. Forexample, in the latex coating composition (L-7) that contains thepolymeric adducts of the present disclosure, stability is achievable ata lower pH than for a comparable latex coating composition containingPEI as the fast drying additive. Thus, when the polymers or polymericadducts of the present disclosure are incorporated into the latexcoating composition, no additional amount of a volatile base compound(e.g., ammonia, trimethylamine, triethylamine, etc.) needs to be addedto the coating composition in order to achieve long-term stability.

TABLE 6 Stability at low pH & Fast-Setting Performance Results for RoofCoatings Fast-setting Performance Low pH Stability (minutes to tackfree/dry-through) Polymeric Polymeric Latex Adducts Adducts No. PEI(PA-1) As Is PEI (PA-1)

L-7 10.0 7.4* >20/>20 3/6 17/FS L-8 7.8* 7.8* >20/>20 11/15 FS *= noaqueous ammonia was added

= a total of 1.0 wt. % PA-1 used FS = fast-setting Latex L-7 = Encor ®187 - acrylic emulsion (Arkema Inc.) Latex L-8 = Encor ® 192 - acrylicemulsion (Arkema Inc.)

The latex coating compositions (L-7 & L-8) that contains the polymericadducts (PA-1) of the present disclosure are found to be tack-free anddry-through in less time than a similar latex coating compositions thatdo not contain any fast drying additives (“As Is”). In addition, thelatex coating composition (L-8) that contains the polymeric adducts(PA-1) exhibits “fast-setting” behavior as compared to conventionaltack-free and dry-through performance. In latex compositions wherefast-setting is observed, the applied film composition becomes less wetto the touch and more thick/pasty. “Fast-setting” is defined as the timeafter initial drawdown when the film starts to become pasty to the touchwhen touched with a human finger. This is a clear advantage as comparedto when a film remains in the wet state before drying completely.

Another advantage of the current invention when used in roof coatingcompositions is related to the heat-age stability of those compositions.Roof coatings can be subjected to extreme heat for long periods of time.In addition, latex formulations are stored for extended periods of timeand adverse weather conditions are commonly encountered, ensuring theimportance of long term storage stability of the composition. However,the appearance and integrity of the coatings are required to remainunchanged under the stresses incurred over these time periods. Theheating age characteristics of the both the latex composition and thefilms formed from the latex compositions are provided in Table 7.

To simulate heat age performance of the dry film, a thick coating isprepared by drying a 1 inch diameter of wet latex on a white Lenetachart at room temperature for 24 hours, followed by subjecting the driedfilm to 50° C. in an oven for 7 days. Surprisingly, latex films (L-7 &L-8) obtained from compositions containing the polymers of the presentdisclosure exhibit similar heat age discoloration as compared to latexfilms obtained from conventional compositions (“As Is”) that have nofast-dry additive as shown in Table 7. In addition, the latex films thatcontain PEI or the polymer adducts of the present disclosure areobserved to both exhibit yellowing to a similar degree.

TABLE 7 Heat Aging Performance of Dry Latex Films and Stored LatexCompositions Film - Heat Aged (SY = slightly yellow; Y = yellow) StoredLatex- Heat Aged Polymeric Polymeric Adducts Adducts Latex No. As Is PEI(PA-1) 

As Is PEI (PA-1) 

L-7 Y Y Y Pass Pass Pass L-8 SY SY SY Pass Pass Pass

= a total of 1.0 wt. % PA-1 used Latex L-7 = Encor ® 187 - acrylicemulsion (Arkema Inc.) Latex L-8 = Encor ® 192 - acrylic emulsion(Arkema Inc.)

In order to simulate the extended storage of latex compositions, a latexcomposition is subjected to 50° C. for 7 days. The latex composition isallowed to cool to room temperature and then subsequently analyzed. Theresulting latex product composition is considered stable (pass) when itis sufficiently free of grit and free-flowing with no obvious change inviscosity. Failure occurs when the latex product becomes coagulated andis unable to be agitated. All of the latex compositions (L-7 & L-8)comprising no fast-dry additive, PEI, or the polymer adducts of thepresent disclosure were observed to pass the test as shown in Table 7,where Y represents yellowing and SY means slightly yellowing. Thisexample clearly demonstrates that the novel compositions of the presentdisclosure provide useful roof coatings with fast setting and comparableyellowing properties at low pH values of about below 8.0.

Example 7—Comparison of Latex Coatings Used in Primer CoatingApplications

The stability at low pH and fast-setting performance measured accordingto Example 2 for various acrylic latex coating compositions comprising 2wt. % of polymers or polymeric adducts of the present disclosure arecompared in Table 8 against the measured results obtained for similarlatex formulations that comprise either PEI at 1 wt. % or no fast dryingadditive (“As Is”).

Generally, the latex coating compositions that contains the polymeradducts of the present disclosure generally exhibit greater pH stabilityas compared to the latex coating composition that contains PEI. Forexample, in the latex coating composition (L-9) that contains thepolymeric adducts of the present disclosure, stability is achievable ata lower pH than for a comparable latex coating composition containingPEI as the fast drying additive. Thus, when the polymers or polymericadducts of the present disclosure are incorporated into the latexcoating composition, no or less additional amount of a volatile basecompound (e.g., ammonia, trimethylamine, triethylamine, etc.) needs tobe added to the coating composition in order to achieve long-termstability.

TABLE 8 Stability at low pH & Fast-Setting Performance Results for RoofCoatings Fast-setting Performance Low pH Stability (minutes to tackfree/dry-through) Polymeric Polymeric Latex Adducts Adducts No.

(PA-1) As Is

(PA-1) L-9 10.5 9.8* >40/>40 3/5 12/18 *= no aqueous ammonia was added

= a total of 1.0 wt. % PEI used Latex L-9 = Encor ® 627 - acrylicemulsion (Arkema Inc.)

Latex coating composition L-9 that contains the polymeric adducts of thepresent disclosure are found to be tack-free in less time than a similarlatex coating composition that does not contain any fast drying additive(“As Is”). This example demonstrates that the compositions of thepresent disclosure provide useful primer coatings with fast-settingproperty at low pH values of about below 10.0.

Example 8—Comparison of Latex Coatings for Use with CementitiousSubstrates

The stability at low pH and fast-setting performance measured accordingto Example 2 for acrylic and styrene-acrylic latex coating formulationscomprising the polymers or polymeric adducts of the present disclosureare compared in Table 9 against the measured results obtained forsimilar latex formulations that comprise either PEI or no fast dryingadditive (“As Is”).

Generally, latex coating compositions that contains the polymer adductsof the present disclosure generally exhibit greater pH stability ascompared to the latex coating composition that contains PEI. Forexample, in the latex coating composition (L-12) that contains thepolymeric adducts of the present disclosure, stability is achievable ata lower pH than for a comparable latex coating composition containingPEI as the fast drying additive. Thus, when the polymers or polymericadducts of the present disclosure are incorporated into the latexcoating composition, no additional amount of a volatile base compound(e.g., ammonia, trimethylamine, triethylamine, etc.) needs to be addedto the coating composition in order to achieve long-term stability.

The latex coating formulations that contains the polymeric adduct PA-1of the present disclosure is found to be tack-free and dry-through inless time than a similar latex coating formulation that does not containany fast drying additive (“As Is”). In addition, the latex coatingformulations that contains the polymeric adducts (PA-1) exhibit similartack-free and dry-through properties as the latex coating formulationthat include PEI as the fast drying additive.

TABLE 9 Stability at low pH and Fast-Setting Performance Results forCementitious Latex Coatings Fast-setting Performance Low pH Stability(minutes to tack-free/dry-through) Polymeric Polymeric Latex AdductsAdducts No. PEI (PA-1) As Is PEI (PA-1) L-2 8.0* 8.0* >20/>20 5/8 8/10L-3 9.5 8.4* >20/>20 5/7 8/10 L-4** 8.6* 8.6* >20/>20 3/4 8/12 L-10**7.5* 7.5* >20/>20  8/10 10/12  L-11 9.2* 9.2* 14/16  9/12 10/13  L-1210.2 9.0* >20/>20 2/3 7/10 *= no ammonium hyddroxide was added**Coalescing solvent added to latex Latex L-2 = Encor ® 662 - acrylicemulsion (Arkema Inc.) Latex L-3 = Neocar ® 820 - acrylic emulsion(Arkema Inc.) Latex L-4 = Neocar ® 850 - acrylic emulsion (Arkema Inc.)Latex L-10 = Encor ® 7325 - styrene acrylic co-polymer emulsion (ArkemaInc.) Latex L-11 = Encor ® 657 - acrylic emulsion (Arkema Inc.) LatexL-12 = Encor ® 123 - styrene acrylic co-polymer emulsion (Arkema Inc.)

Within this specification embodiments have been described in a way whichenables a clear and concise specification to be written, but it isintended and will be appreciated that embodiments may be variouslycombined or separated without parting from the invention. For example,it will be appreciated that all preferred features described herein areapplicable to all aspects of the invention described herein.

The foregoing description of various forms of the invention has beenpresented for purposes of illustration and description. It is notintended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise formsdisclosed. Numerous modifications or variations are possible in light ofthe above teachings. The forms discussed were chosen and described toprovide the best illustration of the principles of the invention and itspractical application to thereby enable one of ordinary skill in the artto utilize the invention in various forms and with various modificationsas are suited to the particular use contemplated. All such modificationsand variations are within the scope of the invention as determined bythe appended claims when interpreted in accordance with the breadth towhich they are fairly, legally, and equitably entitled.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A latex product composition comprising: ananionically-stabilized latex; and one or more polymers, the polymerscomprising the formula (F-1):

 where R₄ is alkyl or

 and R₃ is hydrogen or alkyl, and R₂ is alkyl, and R₁ is H, alkylhydroxide, or alkyl ether hydroxide, or

wherein, w, x, y, and z are integers ranging between 1 and 20, between 0and 10, between 1 and 10,000, and between 0 and 10,000, respectively. 2.The latex product composition according to claim 1, wherein the polymerscomprise 1.3 to 3.8 amine functional group per hydroxyl functionalgroup; wherein the polymers are water soluble and have a number averagemolecular weight in the range of about 500 to about 1,000,000 Daltons.3. The latex product composition according to claim 1, wherein thepolymers are dissolved in water to form an aqueous solution having aviscosity in the range of about 100 centipoise to about 100,000centipoise and a pH value of about 8 to about 12 when the aqueoussolution comprises 70 wt. % of the polymers dissolved in water; theaqueous solution exhibits less than about a 30% viscosity change andmaintains a transparent appearance when maintained at a temperature of50° C. for 30 days.
 4. The latex product composition according to claim1, wherein the anionically-stabilized latex comprises polymer particlesdispersed in an aqueous medium with up to 10 wt. % of an anionicsurfactant based on the weight of the polymer particles; wherein thepolymer particles are selected as one from the group of an acryliccopolymer, a styrene-acrylic copolymer, a vinyl-acrylic copolymer, avinyl copolymer, and a combination or mixture thereof.
 5. The latexproduct composition according to claim 4, wherein the polymers arepresent in an amount between about 0.1 wt, % and 15.0 wt. % based on theweight of the polymer particles present in the anionically-stabilizedlatex.
 6. The latex product composition according to claim 1, whereinlatex product composition forms a coating, paint, adhesive, sealant,caulk, or ink that is water resistant.
 7. The latex product compositionaccording to claim 1, wherein the polymers are selected as

where R is H, alkyl hydroxide, alkyl ether hydroxide, or


8. A latex product composition comprising: an anionically-stabilizedlatex; and an addition product of at least one multifunctional aminecompound reacted with one or more polyfunctional epoxy compounds, one ormore monofunctional epoxy compounds, or a combination thereof; whereinthe multifunctional amine compound and the one or more polyfunctionaland/or monofunctional epoxy compounds provide 1.3 to 3.8 aminefunctional group per epoxy functional group; wherein the additionproduct is water soluble, has a number average molecular weight in therange of about 500 to about 1,000,000 Daltons, and comprises a nitrogenatom percentage of 5 to about 35%.
 9. The latex product compositionaccording to claim 8, wherein the polyfunctional epoxy compoundscomprise epoxides of unsaturated hydrocarbons and fatty acids/oils,epoxy ethers of multifunctional alcohols, or combinations thereof andthe monofunctional epoxy compounds comprise epoxy ethers ofmonofunctional alcohols, monoepoxide of unsaturated hydrocarbons, orcombinations thereof; wherein the multifunctional amine compounds areselected from the group of ethylene diamine, butylene diamine,diethylene triamine, hexamethylene triamine, triethylene tetramine,polyoxyethylene amines, 2-methyl pentamethylene diamine, 1,3-diaminopropane, 1,4-diamino butane, 1,5-diamino pentane, 1,6-diamino hexane,1,2-diamino cyclohexane, isophorone diame, tetraethylene pentamine,4,4′-methylene-bis-cyclohexyl amine, bis(3-methyl-4aminocyclihexyl)methane, 2,2-bis(3-methyl-4-aminocyclohexyl) propane,2,6-bis(aminomethyl) norborane, cyclohexane diamine, 3,4-diamino furan,phenylene diamine, 2,4-diamino toluene, polyalkylene oxide diamine,polyalkylene oxide triamine, 2,6 diamino toluene and the combinationsthereof.
 10. The latex product composition according to claim 8, whereinthe at least one multifunctional amine compound is diethylene triamine(DETA) and the one or more polyfunctional epoxy compounds and/ormonofunctional epoxy compounds are selected from the group of ethyleneglycol diglycidyl ether (EGDGE), n-butyl glycidyl ether (BGE),polypropylene glycol diglycidyl ether (PPGDGE), and polyethylene glycoldiglycidyl ether (PEGDGE).
 11. The latex product composition accordingto claim 8, wherein the addition product is dissolved in water to forman aqueous solution having a viscosity in the range of about 100centipoise to about 100,000 centipoise and a pH value of about 8 toabout 12 when the aqueous solution comprises 70 wt. % of the additionproduct dissolved in water; the aqueous solution exhibits less thanabout a 30% viscosity change and maintains a transparent appearance whenmaintained at a temperature of 50° C. for 30 days.
 12. The latex productcomposition according to claim 8, wherein the addition product has theformula (F-1):

where R₄ is alkyl or

and R₃ is hydrogen or alkyl, and R₂ is alkyl, and R₁ is H, alkylhydroxide, alkyl ether hydroxide, or

wherein, w, x, y, and z are integers ranging between 1 and 20, between 0and 10, between 1 and 10,000, and between 0 and 10,000, respectively.13. The latex product composition according to claim 8, wherein theanionically-stabilized latex comprises polymer particles dispersed in anaqueous medium with up to 10 wt. % of an anionic surfactant based on theweight of the polymer particles; wherein the polymer particles areselected from the group of an acrylic copolymer, a styrene-acryliccopolymer, a vinyl-acrylic copolymer, a vinyl copolymer, and acombination or mixture thereof.
 14. The latex product compositionaccording to claim 13, wherein the addition product is present in anamount between about 0.1 wt. % and 15.0 wt. % based on the weight of thepolymer particles present in the anionically-stabilized latex.
 15. Thelatex product composition according to claim 8, wherein the latexproduct composition forms a coating, paint, adhesive, sealant, caulk, orink that is water resistant.
 16. The latex product composition accordingto claim 8, wherein addition product is selected as

where R is H, alkyl hydroxide, alkyl ether hydroxide, or


17. A latex product comprising: an anionically-stabilized latex; and apolymeric adduct having a backbone comprising a plurality of aminefunctional groups and hydroxyl functional groups, the polymeric adducthaving a number average molecular weight in the range of about 500 toabout 1,000,000 Daltons, and comprises a nitrogen atom percentage of 5to about 35%; wherein the polymeric adduct is water soluble and formedby reacting an amine compound with one or more epoxy compounds, suchthat there are 1.3 to 3.8 reactive amine functional groups per reactiveepoxy functional groups.
 18. The latex product composition according toclaim 17, wherein the polymeric adduct has the formula (F-1):

where R₄ is alkyl or

and R₃ is hydrogen or alkyl, and R₂ is alkyl, and R₁ is H, alkylhydroxide, alkyl ether hydroxide, or

wherein, w, x, y, and z are integers ranging between 1 and 20, between 0and 10, between 1 and 10,000, and between 0 and 10,000, respectively.19. The latex product composition according to claim 17, wherein thepolymeric adduct is dissolved in an aqueous medium to form an aqueousdispersion having a viscosity in the range of about 100 centipoise toabout 10,000 centipoise and a pH value of about 8 to about 12 when theaqueous dispersion comprises 70 wt. % of the addition product; theaqueous solution exhibits less than about a 30% viscosity change andmaintains a transparent appearance when maintained at a temperature of50° C. for 30 days.
 20. The latex product composition according to claim17, wherein the polymeric adduct is present in an amount between about0.1 wt. % and 15.0 wt. % based on the weight of latex particles presentin the anionically-stabilized latex.
 21. The latex product compositionaccording to claim 17, wherein the anionically-stabilized latexcomprises polymer particles dispersed in an aqueous medium with up to 10wt. % of an anionic surfactant based on the weight of the polymerparticles; wherein the polymer particles are selected from the group ofan acrylic copolymer, a styrene-acrylic copolymer, a vinyl-acryliccopolymer, a vinyl copolymer, and a combination or mixture thereof. 22.The latex product composition according to claim 17, wherein the latexproduct composition forms a coating, paint, adhesive, sealant, caulk, orink.
 23. The latex product composition according to claim 17, whereinthe polymeric adduct is selected as

where R is H, alkyl hydroxide, alkyl ether hydroxide, or


24. A coating formulation for use as a pressure sensitive adhesive, thecoating formulation comprising the latex product composition accordingto claim
 1. 25. A coating formulation for use in a decorativeapplication, the coating formulation comprising the latex productcomposition according to claim
 1. 26. A coating formulation for use in aroof application, the coating formulation comprising the latex productcomposition according to claim
 1. 27. A coating formulation for use in aprimer application, the coating formulation comprising the latex productcomposition according to claim
 1. 28. A coating formulation for use in acementitious coating application, the coating formulation comprising thelatex production composition according to claim
 1. 29. The coatingformulation according to claim 24, wherein the coating formulationfurther comprises one or more additives selected from the group ofadditional polymers, pigments or colorants, fillers, dispersants orsurfactants, coalescent agents, pH neutralizing agents, plasticizers,defoamers, thickeners, biocides, co-solvents, rheology modifiers,wetting or spreading agents, leveling agents, conductive additives,adhesion promoters, anti-blocking agents, anti-cratering agents oranti-crawling agents, anti-freezing agents, corrosion inhibitors,anti-static agents, flame retardants, optical brighteners, UV absorbersor other light stabilizers, chelating agents, crosslinking agents,flattening agents, flocculants, humectants, insecticides, lubricants,odorants, oils, waxes or anti-slip aids, soil repellants, and stainresistant agents.